There is a new Joker virus that can access texts including your phone’s other important logs and private information. And that’s why Android users are being warned to check their smartphones. Especially after some popular apps were found to be hiding a dangerous form of malware.
The Joker virus can install hidden spyware and premium rate dial-ups into android devices. Which can then sign-up unsuspecting users to expensive monthly subscription plans. Some victims have lost costs over £240 a year for these fraudulent subscriptions.
The Joker malware has been traced in 8 apps from the Play Store. Which after detection have been withdrawn by Google. And if you have already installed one, remove it as soon as possible. Below we have listed those 8 apps and if you have any one of them installed it is recommended that you remove them immediately.
What is the Joker virus that can access texts
Cybersecurity company Quick Heal Security Lab warned this later Joker virus can gain access to text messages, contacts, and a lot of other vital information on smartphones. At launch, this application asks for notification access, which is used to get notification data.
This virus takes SMS data from notification, asks for Contacts access, and makes and manages phone call permission. After that, it is working like a document scanner application without showing any visible malicious activity to the user.
Here is the list of affected applications:
- Auxiliary Message
- Element Scanner
- Fast Magic SMS
- Free CamScanner
- Go Messages
- Super Message
- Travel Wallpapers
- Great SMS
Security specialists Zimperium reports it is aware of more than 1,000 new variants of Joker since 2020. Malware authors spread these malware applications on the Google Play Store in scanner applications, wallpaper applications, message applications.
These types of applications can quickly become a target. Don’t forget to let us know if you were targeted or used any of the apps mentioned above by commenting below.